Ideas for Brightening Blue Monday
Today marks Blue Monday, officially the most depressing day of the year. We thought we’d share our ways of avoiding the January blues. It's important to make sure you're taking care of yourself at this time of year, so use today to do something that makes you happy!
As our little gift to you, we're offering 10% off EVERYTHING today, use the code BLUEMONDAY at checkout if you need cheering up or know someone who does.
Enjoy the outdoors
Research shows that being outside, even for just 50 minutes, can lift your mood, reduce anxieties and boost both attention span and creativity. What better day to take advantage of this? Get outside and soak up some of that winter sun for a much needed energy burst.
Why not go with a friend you haven't seen for ages? Reaching out to those around you is always a good way to feel brighter, so let's support each other by checking in and getting outside!
Watch something uplifting
It's often said that laughter is the best medicine, so why not shake off those January blues with a comedy classic like Monty Python and the Holy Grail or one of my personal favourites, School of Rock. Lucy found Get Back: The Beatles documentary a lovely and meditative journey. It's also soundtracked to the music of the Beatles, so it's a perfect flick to put on and settle into when it's chilly outside.
Pamper yourself
Why not unwind by taking a bath or a long shower? It's such a simple way to reward yourself for getting through January. Elevate your soak by lighting some candles and listening to your favourite album - enjoy the little luxuries!
Listen to something funny
If you're after an alternative to your usual playlists or need a break from the daily news catch-ups, there's a number of podcasts out there designed to make you smile. A couple of our favourites here at LLT include Off-Menu and Shagged, Married, Annoyed. Pop one on while you're cooking dinner to bring some cheer to your routine!
Cook something delicious
Eating healthy doesn't have to be boring. Filled with nourishing vegetables and bursting with colour and flavour, this soup from Ottolenghi is a wonderful way to stave off the cold.
Get lost in a good story
Studies show that reading can increase relaxation by up to 68% so why not settle down with a good book. Immerse yourself in a literary landscape and feel the stress of the day melt away. While reading isn't always for everyone, audiobooks can also transport you to new worlds and inspiring stories.
Do some baking
Almost everyone tried their hand at banana bread over lockdown but there are so many other easy recipes out there! Baking is not only a soothing activity but there's the added bonus of something tasty at the end of it. Nigella's sumptuously sticky gingerbread is easy, delicious and vegan for anyone doing Veganuary.
Try mindful colouring
Colouring is a wonderful activity to help both adults and children to just focus on the present moment. We have loads of free colouring sheets that are perfect for bringing awareness to colours on the page and your current surroundings.
Or get creative with one of the LucyLovesThis delivery boxes. We're running a January competition for the most innovative use of our boxes, it's a great opportunity to colour, create and be in with a chance of winning a framed print of your choice!
How are you cheering yourself up today? We'd love your tips and tricks for bringing a little more sunshine into your day! Tag us at @lucylovesthis to share your ideas for joy.
